'Journey may have ended, but pride and love for our team will resonate forever' - Jay Shah after India's World Cup loss

India played fantastic cricket throughout the ODI World Cup 2023 and their only defeat in the campaign came on Sunday, November 19, in the summit clash against Australia at the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

After the heartbreaking defeat, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Jay Shah lauded Rohit Sharma and Co. for their commendable performance in the marquee event. India won 10 games in a row before their six-wicket defeat in the final.

Shah took to his official 'X' (formerly known as Twitter) handle and praised the team for dominating the tournament and showing a never-say-die attitude.

Although the Men in Blue may have fallen short in the Cricket World Cup 2023 finals against Australia, their journey has left an indelible mark of inspiration. From triumph to tribulation, each match became a testament to the unwavering spirit, determination, and skill of our team. Winning all 10 matches leading up to the finals, they showcased the true essence of cricket – a game that is as unpredictable as it is beautiful. The entire nation rallied behind our boys, transforming this World Cup into a nationwide celebration of cricket in India. The energy, passion, and unyielding support from the entire population were truly incredible. To every single member of Team India, I express heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have provided moments of pure joy throughout this tournament. You've made us proud, not just with your victories, but with the way you've played the game – with heart, with pride, and with a never-say-die attitude. This World Cup wasn't just about the wins; it was about the emotions, the camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of Team India. Thank you for the joy and the unforgettable moments. Here's to the Men in Blue – true champions in every sense. The journey may have ended, but the pride and love for our team will resonate forever.

Earlier in the day, Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to field first on a slow wicket. Shubman Gill departed early but Rohit Sharma got India off to another blistering start. Virat Kohli also started with a flurry of boundaries. Rohit departed for 47 and Shreyas Iyer was also dismissed in quick succession. KL Rahul steadied the ship alongside Kohli with a patient 67-run partnership off 109 balls.

Kohli was dismissed against the run of play for a well-compiled half-century. Rahul also brought up a sedate fifty before his departure. Ravindra Jadeja and Suryakumar Yadav struggled to find their timing as India and the tailenders didn't have much of a chance on a slowish track as the home side got bowled out for 240.

In reply, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami wreaked havoc with the new ball, taking three Australian wickets in the first seven overs. However, a 192-run partnership from 215 balls between Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne broke the hearts of the Indian fans. The former was dismissed after playing an exemplary knock of 137 off 120 balls with two runs required for a win.

Glenn Maxwell came out to the middle and took just one ball to score the remaining two runs as Australia won a record-extending sixth World Cup title. Labuschagne remained unbeaten on 58 off 110 balls and his inning was the perfect foil for Head's aggressive knock.